Noodle dishes are easy to prepare, filling, and tasty, but they’re not always the healthiest meal choices. A package of Ramen noodles makes for a quick, hot lunch, and you may love a big bowl of spaghetti, but they’re not quite as nutritious as you’d like them to be. There’s a wide variety of healthier noodle choices out there. Try one of these healthy noodle options to add more variety and nutrients to your next meal!
Squash noodles
You can make your own noodles out of squash as a healthy, nutritious alternative to dried noodles from the store. Use a spiral cutter designed to make “zoodles” or zucchini noodles, cook Spaghetti Squash and pull out the noodle-like innards, or use a vegetable peeler to create a pasta stand-in from your favorite squash. Try some out and find your favorite!
Black bean noodles
Black bean noodles are very high in fiber and protein, and offer a good source of iron. Unlike traditional noodles, noodles made entirely from black beans have no cholesterol, trans fat, or sodium. Find them in your local health food store, or in a well-stocked supermarket.
Whole grain noodles
You should strive to eat more whole grains and fewer refined grains. At least half of the grains you eat each day should be whole grains according to the USDA. Whole grain noodles are high in fiber, and offer a good source of vitamins and minerals. You can find these in most grocery stores. Check the labels and pick a brand with a high fiber count. Different brands can taste quite different, so try out a few to find the one your family likes best.
Quinoa noodles
Quinoa delivers complete protein, which means it provides the nine essential amino acids your body needs. Quinoa noodles are a good source of protein as well as many other vitamins and nutrients. They’re also rich in iron and magnesium, and low in fat.
Buckwheat noodles
Noodles made from buckwheat provide fewer calories and carbohydrates than most other types of noodles. Buckwheat noodles also bring a good source of fiber and magnesium to the table.
You don’t need to ditch your go-to instant lunch or forgo your favorite post-workout dinner. Refined wheat noodles and egg noodles aren’t necessarily bad for you, especially if you eat them in the right portions. These healthier noodles choices just offer an option for adding extra nutrients to your meals.